Discover how three farmers are making real impacts on their operations and in their communities.
At Farm Credit, we’ve always believed in investing in the future of agriculture — and that means investing in the people who will shape it. Our annual Farmers on the Rise award program is one way we’re putting that belief into action.
Created to support emerging agricultural leaders, Farmers on the Rise recognizes the passion, innovation, and dedication of the next generation. These individuals are making real impacts not just on their operations, but also in their communities. They’re forwardthinking, hardworking, and committed to building legacies that last.
We’re proud to stand with young, beginning, and small farmers to provide more than funding. Through programs like JumpStart and AgBiz Masters, access to practical tools and educational materials in our member portal, and a strong network of support, we’re helping the next generation gain the knowledge and tools they need to succeed. We see their potential and we’re committed to helping them realize it.
In this edition of the Leader, we’re honored to introduce you to several of our 2024 Farmers on the Rise honorees. Their stories inspire us, and we hope they inspire you, too.
To learn more about the Farmers on the Rise award recipients and the program, visit horizonfc.com/rise.
May
26 Memorial Day, Offices Closed
June 19 Juneteenth, Offices Closed
July 1 Crop Insurance: Fall Crop Premium Due 4 Independence Day, Offices Closed
In the evolving world of agriculture, innovation and sustainability go hand in hand. Fresh Source Farms — located in Havre de Grace, Maryland — an operation dedicated to producing high-quality microgreens, is an example of how modern farming techniques can reshape the food industry.
Owner/operators, Andy and Theresa Mussaw, are committed to progressive strategies, earning them the 2024 Farmers on the Rise award, presented by Horizon Farm Credit.
“The recognition not only highlights their hard work but also provides crucial funding for a new potting machine,” shares Maureen O’Shea Fitzgerald, Farm Credit Ag Business Consultant. “This is an investment that will enhance their production capabilities and further their mission of delivering fresh, nutrient-packed microgreens to consumers.”
Andy’s desire to begin as a first-generation farmer stemmed from his interest in open spaces and growing new life.
“I worked in technology, in a cubicle for years, before I needed a change in scenery,” says Andy. “I like working with my hands and applying learned skills to generate new ways of efficiency. I also enjoy working alongside people in our community. Teaching these practices is fulfilling.”
Microgreens have become increasingly popular due to their intense flavor, concentrated nutritional value, and versatility in culinary relevance. Unlike full-grown crops, microgreens are harvested days after sprouting, often containing more condensed vitamins and antioxidants than their mature counterparts.
Not to be confused with sprouts, microgreens are grown in soil and offer less room for environmental hazards. They serve as an addition to salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and food-lover dishes, putting them on the radar for health-conscious consumers and culinary patrons.
By growing their yield in a controlled environment, they ensure optimal conditions that result in consistent quality, year-round production, and minimal environmental interaction. This practice allows for a more sustainable product, and as the business thrives, there’s more need for simplifying growing practices.
The funding they received through the Farmers on the Rise award was used to purchase a Stilt Pro potting machine, a game-changing addition to their operation. This equipment streamlines their planting process, allowing them to elevate efficiency, reduce labor and costs, and scale their production to meet the rising demand for microgreens.
Havre de Grace, MD
“They’ve been growing their operation at a rapid rate,” explains Maureen. “My role has been to assist in the planning process and provide assistance in ways they can channel the growth.”
Andy notes, “Working with Farm Credit has been a great experience, and they are a vital part of our success. They understand the needs of a growing business and work as a partner, invested in our future.”
The team at Fresh Source Farms works together to offset the workload for Andy, so he can focus on generating new ideas and expanding the microgreens community.
One of the key aspects of their success is the connection to the local community. By supplying fresh microgreens to restaurants, grocery stores, and direct-to-consumer markets, they are playing an essential role in the local food movement. The farm’s transparency in their growing process and dedication to freshness have made them a reliable source of premium microgreens in the region.
“I like working with my hands and applying learned skills to generate new ways of efficiency. I also enjoy working alongside people in our community. Teaching these practices is fulfilling.”
— Andy Mussaw
“Andy’s proven to be an innovator in this field, his attentiveness to detail and knowledge of the process makes him an expert for others to follow,” shares Tony Hatzigeorgalis, Fresh Source Farms Chief Operations Officer. “There are new and exciting products on the horizon, and we’re always moving forward, starting within the community.”
Andy offers educational resources and has even developed his own food-safe Premium Soil Press. As a leader in the microgreens industry, he provides coaching to other growers; oversees social media mentoring; developed FarmFlow, an innovative online software system used to manage every aspect of a microgreens business; and is a founder of Urban Ag Academy, an online microgreens learning platform and community.
Their focus remains on refining their growing techniques, expanding their reach, and continuing to educate consumers about the benefits of microgreens. By embracing technology and sustainable practices, Fresh Source Farms is not only meeting the demands of today’s market, but also paving the way for the future of farming. As Fresh Source Farms continues to innovate and expand, they remain a shining example of how farmers can drive change and make a lasting impact on the industry.
For more information about Fresh Source Farms and their commitment to fresh, sustainable microgreens, visit freshsourcefarms.com.
Service to Civilian–
HOW TEA TRANSFORMED ONE VETERAN’S LIFE
Story and photos by Maria Listman
Blue Knob, PA
In the heart of Pennsylvania’s Allegheny Mountains, where crisp air meets winding roads, one veteran has turned a simple cup of tea into a life-changing mission.
Living in Blue Knob, a region known for its iconic ski slopes and natural beauty, Rhonda Smith and her family built a lifestyle rooted in wellness and resilience. Focused on offering her community fresh and healthy food, natural products, and artisanal teas, Rhonda ensures every item she produces is made with quality ingredients and care.
Rhonda grew up on her grandparents’ farm, two hours from where she now lives. Her summers were spent planting, weeding, and preserving. A year after high school, Rhonda joined the U.S. Air Force to travel and earn a college degree.
She served ten years, eight of active duty, with the last three stationed in Germany. At the time, Rhonda was a single parent to her young son, and the move was a big transition.
Rhonda and her son were welcomed to the country by a German family that hosted new military personnel. They lived on a farm offering all the familiarities that Rhonda was used to at home. Upon their arrival, Rhonda and her son got sick. Their German landlord brewed a special tea made of local herbs and flowers. As Rhonda spent time living with the family, she learned about the healing power of tea and food.
“She would send us home with baskets of produce, eggs, and herbs — among other things — and I thought to myself, ‘I want to be like her when I grow up,’” Rhonda recalls with a smile.
While serving in Germany, Rhonda worked in trauma as an operating room nurse. She received her bachelor’s degrees in psychology and sociology, with hopes to work in the U.S. as a nurse when she returned home.
However, when she got out of the military, transitioning to civilian life was challenging. Her college education didn’t transfer, making it hard to resume her nursing career. Seeking a new path, she earned an MBA and began exploring ways to help female veterans.
In the meantime, Rhonda got married, had a daughter, and planted roots in the mountains. One day, while driving through town, Rhonda and her daughter passed a closed tea shop. The shop had been a family favorite, and her daughter mentioned missing it. This moment was a catalyst for Rhonda, and she began blending teas at home. Within a month, she launched Skirted Soldier.
Over the past seven years, her business has grown significantly. As demand grew, her dedication and mission-driven approach caught national attention, leading to a feature on The Today Show. Now, Skirted Soldier has over 200 wholesale accounts across the country, a testament to Rhonda’s passion and perseverance.
While Rhonda’s passion is providing quality tea, her commitment to her cause doesn’t end there. Rhonda donates 10% of every purchase to benefit female veterans and spends her free time serving on the Advisory Board for the Pennsylvania Veteran Farming Network.
Her family’s love of gardening eventually evolved into another venture, Blue Knob Farm, where they offer produce, eggs, berries, and valueadded agricultural products. Through partnerships with local farmers, they create freeze-dried food kits for farmers markets, with some kits donated to shelters and food banks.
Yet, Rhonda’s journey took an even more profound turn, shaping her commitment to health and wellness. A few years ago, Rhonda’s daughter went through a challenging health journey. Determined to find the root cause, Rhonda took her daughter to a doctor of natural medicine. Within two weeks, her daughter showed significant
“Our ‘why’ is making sure our community is eating clean, healthy food and using safe products.”
— Rhonda Smith
improvement. This experience prompted the family to re-evaluate their lifestyle, from food choices to environmental toxins.
This led the family to create chemical-free body and home care products. From dry shampoo to bug spray and laundry detergent, Blue Knob Farm now provides safe, natural products for their community. Her daughter is actively involved in the business and has seen the benefits of the products firsthand. The journey from nursing to realizing the power of herbal and natural remedies has inspired Rhonda to pursue a degree in natural medicine.
“Our ‘why’ is making sure our community is eating clean, healthy food and using safe products,” Rhonda shares. “We want them to know what they’re putting in and on their body.”
In 2024, Rhonda was honored as a Farmers on the Rise Award recipient for her outstanding efforts and commitment to excellence. The award funds are allowing Rhonda’s dreams of purchasing a commercial freeze dry come to life, further enhancing her ability to positively impact her community.
For more information about Skirted Solider, visit skirtedsoldier.com, and visit Blue Knob Farm on Facebook.
Sowing SeedsOF SUCCESS
Story and photos by Andrea Haines
Atop a hill in Frederick County, Maryland, envision a place where bursts of color sway in the wind, filling the landscape with vibrant hues of tulips, dahlias, ranunculus, and other flowering plants. This emerging flower farm is more than just rows of blooms — it’s a place where community comes together, offering locally grown, fresh-cut flowers to consumers who appreciate the beauty and sustainability of buying close to home.
MD
Katie and Michael Stevens are the owners of Daysland Vista Blooms, a flower farm operation that evolved from Katie’s family dairy farm located in Walkersville, Maryland. Obtaining a degree in dairy science from Virginia Tech, Katie has extensive experience in animal husbandry and agricultural business development.
“My grandmother was always planting and tending to flowers. I enjoyed watching the way she cared for them,” recalls Katie. “Growing up on a dairy farm, I was taught how to work hard. The work is different but shares the same values.”
Since establishing the flower farm in 2017 and marketing their flowers in 2022, Katie and Michael’s business has sprouted. Their hard work has extended opportunities for larger growth, earning them recognition in Farm Credit’s 2024 Farmers on the Rise awards. As a recipient of the award, they received $10,000 to purchase and install irrigation lines for their high-tunnel and purchase a flower cooler.
Beyond the flowers, Katie found another opportunity to remain close to agriculture after her family retired from dairy farming. Serving in a full-time position as the director for the Frederick County Office of Agriculture, Katie knows first-hand about the challenges that come as a business owner within the ag industry. She utilizes these skills and experience to assist other farms in the community.
Katie has always been able to share that support with other agriculturalists, however, she also found herself in need of support when launching her business. Leaning on skills acquired from horticulture classes in high school, she felt the need to expand her knowledge by attending the Gardener’s Workshop, an online flower farmer school based in Newport News, Virginia.
“I came away with new skills and tools to incorporate when growing plants,” shares Katie. “I appreciate being able to attend events and classes with like-minded participants.”
Katie and Michael have also found that by working with their Farm Credit Ag Relationship Manager, Kelli Wilson, they have been able to gain further knowledge of financial and business methods with her guidance.
“Farm Credit understands the needs and demands of beginning
Walkersville,
farmers,” explains Katie. “We’ve been growing rapidly, and Kelli has been able to assist with plans along the way.”
Farm Credit has a reputation for its support of agriculture and ag businesses. Kelli notes, “Our role is to share the journey alongside the families and businesses we serve. We see so many generational transitions among farmers and while the business plan may change, the incorporation of family remains steadfast. Katie and Michael are planting seeds within their children to generate growth and longevity in the business for years to come. They shared a clear goal in the beginning of this process, and Farm Credit was able to support their goal by offering planning and financial advice, and connect them with experienced mentors.”
The couple have three young daughters — a 6-year-old and 4-yearold twins — who are very much involved with the farm. “We want the kids to experience it all,” comments Michael. “We are investing in their future in more ways than one and it benefits them to see it first-hand.”
“My grandmother was always planting and tending to flowers. I enjoyed watching the way she cared for them.” — Katie Stevens
Their oldest daughter helps with arrangements and wants to set up a flower stand, just like her mom. All three girls help with toting buckets, watering flowers and even the occasional flower trimming.
The same education shared with their children is also beneficial for consumers. Teaching customers about their environmentally friendly business allows them to take an active role in their community.
“Since we still have cattle at the farm, we use their manure as compost and pack it into the flowerbeds. This cuts back on tilling the soil and allows the plants to source nutrients from the compost instead of disturbing the ground,” explains Katie.
The seeds are grown in soil blocks — eliminating plastic waste — bouquets are wrapped in paper instead of plastic, they strive to plant many perennials to source from year after year, and they even use recycled Mason jars from a local distillery for vases.
“You need to think outside of the box”, Michael shares. “It’s a process that is always evolving.”
The couple is truly compatible in many ways, oftentimes, Katie’s dream is put into action by Michael. “They work well together,” Kelli says with a smile. “Their end goal is the same and they have learned to combine their talents to make it work for them.” She is excited about the future and the journey it holds for the Stevens family.
For more information and to explore the blooms, follow Daysland Vista Blooms on Facebook and Instagram
Fulfilling Our Mission
THE SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF A COOPERATIVE THAT DRIVE FARM CREDIT
As we celebrate International Year of the Cooperative in 2025, Farm Credit reflects on the foundational values that guide our mission. Cooperatives are more than just another business. They represent communities with shared values, democratic participation, and a commitment to supporting each other.
At Farm Credit, the seven principles of a cooperative are the heartbeat of our work, empowering rural communities and agriculture to thrive for generations to come. These principles are not mere ideals — they’re the bedrock of who we are and how we operate, ensuring we stay true to our mission of serving agriculture and our communities.
| 1. VOLUNTARY AND OPEN MEMBERSHIP
Cooperatives are voluntary organizations open to all people able to use their services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership. At Farm Credit, we welcome farmers, agribusinesses, and other members of the communities we serve. Our commitment to inclusivity means that anyone who shares our values of community support and agricultural advancement may be able to access the financial tools and resources they need to succeed.
Visit horizonfc.com/about to learn more about our cooperative.
| 2. DEMOCRATIC MEMBER CONTROL
When you’re a Farm Credit customer, you represent the heart of our cooperative. Each member has a voice in our operations, electing the Board of Directors who guide our direction. This democratic process ensures that the decisions we make reflect the collective will of those we serve. We’re proud of our members’ active participation in shaping our path, ensuring that we’re always accountable and focused on the needs of agriculture and the communities we serve.
Visit horizonfc.com/elections to learn more about our election process.
| 3. MEMBER ECONOMIC PARTICIPATION
Members contribute to and benefit from the success of the cooperative through our unique patronage program. By returning a portion of our profits to those who helped generate them, Farm Credit reinvests in its members. This year, we distributed over $72 million in patronage to our members, directly impacting the lives of farmers who rely on us. This principle aligns with our mission to empower rural communities and share our Association’s success.
Visit horizonfc.com/patronage to learn more about our patronage program.
| 4. AUTONOMY AND INDEPENDENCE
Cooperatives are self-sustaining, controlled by their members. Farm Credit holds this principle close to its heart, maintaining autonomy in decision-making to protect the interests of our members. While we collaborate with industry partners and advocate for policies that benefit agriculture, our independence allows us to stay true to our roots — ensuring our priorities always lie in the needs of the communities in our 100-county footprint.
Visit farmcredit.com/structure to learn more Farm Credit’s structure.
| 5. EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND INFORMATION
A strong cooperative is built on ensuring the membership is informed. We actively invest in education through a variety of programs designed to empower the next generation of agricultural leaders. From financial literacy workshops to on-demand courses, a member portal, and more, we provide our members with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. Farm Credit is also committed to empowering young and beginning farmers, offering grants and mentorship programs to ensure the future of agriculture remains bright and prosperous.
Visit horizonfc.com/resources to learn more about education and grant resources.
| 6. COOPERATION AMONG COOPERATIVES
The strength of cooperatives lies in unity. We actively collaborate with other Farm Credit Associations, agribusinesses, and industry organizations to expand opportunities for our members. This network of collaboration ensures that, together, we can address challenges and share resources that enhance the sustainability of agriculture nationwide. Whether it’s advocating for policy change or working together on disaster relief efforts, we believe in the power of shared action.
Visit farmcredit.com to learn more about the Farm Credit System.
| 7. CONCERN FOR COMMUNITY
A cooperative’s responsibility doesn’t end with its members — it extends to the wider community. We take this responsibility seriously by supporting local initiatives and fostering sustainable growth. We’re deeply involved in community development and funding infrastructure that keeps rural areas strong. We’ve provided financial support to nonprofit organizations that focus on education, innovation, and local development — helping to ensure vitality in the communities we serve.
Visit horizonfc.com/newsroom to learn more about our community efforts in the 2024 Cooperative Stewardship Report.
A Legacy of Commitment
In recognition of International Year of the Cooperative, we honor the principles that guide us every day. Farm Credit is more than a financial institution — we are a movement dedicated to building a sustainable future for agriculture and the communities that rely on it. By living out the seven principles of cooperation, we remain steadfast in our mission to support our members, invest in rural communities, and cultivate a brighter future for agriculture.
PICTURE-PERFECT AGRICULTURE
Scan to learn more & enter by August 4 horizonfc.com/photo-contest
Have a cool shot showcasing rural life or country living?
Enter it for a chance to be featured in our 2026 calendar!
Join us for some summer fun at our Farm Credit Days. Enjoy all the excitement and a meal on us!
Choose an event that’s convenient for you and find more details about each event at horizonfc.com/summer. One Farm Credit Day event registration per family.
Wednesday, June 18: Adventure Park USA, Monrovia, MD
Friday, June 20: Knoebels Amusement Park, Elysburg, PA
Tuesday, June 24: Cherry Crest Adventure Farm, Ronks, PA
Thursday, June 26: Kennywood Amusement Park, West Mifflin, PA
Friday, June 27: DelGrosso’s Amusement Park, Tipton, PA
Wednesday, July 23: DE State Fair, Harrington, DE*
*More information will be sent directly to customers in this region closer to the fair. No registration necessary. Register by Friday, June 6 at horizonfc.com/summer or call us at 888.339.3334.
PUTTING DOWN ROOTS AND
Growing Your Dreams
As property prices rise, the barrier to home ownership grows alongside it. Suddenly, finding a place with the open space you want seems more and more out of reach. With our first time rural property owner program, we can help turn your dream into a reality. Give us a call today to find out how a lower down payment can help you plant your roots and fulfill your country living dreams!
SECURITY YOU CAN COUNT ON.
Convenience You Need.
Your operation depends on secure, reliable financial tools. With wire and check fraud on the rise, protecting your finances is more important than ever. Our digital solutions — including AutoDraft, Digital Banking, FastCash, and DocuSign — offer seamless ways to manage transactions, whether it’s loan payments or loan documents, with an extra layer of security.
Whether you’re in the field or the office, you can have peace of mind and confidence knowing your account is protected. Call our team at 888.339.3334 to learn how our digital tools can help safeguard your operation and simplify your financial management.
STRENGTHEN
STRENGTHEN
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When you work with Farm Credit, you’re not just a customer — you’re a member of our Association. One of the many benefits of cooperative membership is our unique patronage program, which reduces your cost of borrowing by sharing a portion of our Association’s profits with you.
